Lovely Day for a Guinness

Few artists shaped a brand’s visual identity as memorably as John Gilroy. Active from the 1930s through the 1960s, Gilroy brought the world of Guinness to life with fearless color, bold graphics, mischievous humor, and unforgettable characters. His posters didn’t just advertise a beer, they built a playful, enduring visual universe that remains instantly recognizable today.

Eibhlin Colgan, Archive & Heritage Manager at Guinness St. James's Gate, joins us live from Dublin via Zoom for a deep dive into Gilroy’s creative legacy. You’ll explore the evolution of the famous Guinness animals (including the iconic toucan), discover how these designs came to define the brand, and see why Gilroy’s work still influences design and advertising nearly a century later.

And yes, this afternoon includes a Guinness!

$20 ticket includes lecture, a pint of beer, and your support of the Beer Culture Center. Additional food and beverage will be available for purchase.

Event Venue & Nearby Stays

Guinness Open Gate Brewery – West Loop, 901 West Kinzie Street, Chicago, United States

Concerts, fests, parties, meetups - all the happenings, one place.

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